- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Mix the ingredients until a rough dough forms.
- Knead the Dough:
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes on medium speed.
- First Rise:
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Dough:
- Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles and divide it into two equal portions.
- Shape each portion into a ball and let them rest for about 10 minutes.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll each dough ball into an oval shape, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Second Rise:
- Transfer the shaped dough to baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
- Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- In a small bowl, beat the egg for the egg wash.
- Create the Pide Pattern:
- Using your fingertips, gently press into the dough to create a criss-cross pattern or a border around the edges.
- Brush the surface of the dough with the beaten egg.
- Add Toppings:
- Sprinkle the sesame seeds and nigella seeds (if using) evenly over the top of the dough.
- Bake the Bread:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.
- Rotate the baking sheets halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Perfect Turkish Pide:
- Proper Yeast Activation: Make sure the water and milk are at the correct temperature to activate the yeast. Too hot or too cold can affect the yeast’s performance.
- Kneading: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic to develop the gluten, which gives the bread its structure.
- Second Rise: Allowing the dough to rise a second time helps to develop a lighter texture.
Variations to Try:
- Cheese Pide: Add crumbled feta cheese or shredded mozzarella on top of the dough before baking for a cheesy version.
- Herb Pide: Mix dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the dough for extra flavor.
Conclusion:
Turkish Pide bread is a versatile and delicious bread that complements a variety of dishes. Its soft, chewy texture and flavorful crust make it a favorite for dipping, topping, or enjoying on its own. Follow this detailed recipe to bake authentic Turkish bread that will delight your family and friends. Enjoy baking and savoring this traditional treat!